If you have ever prepared a meal, a vacation, or even a business trip, you know how unproductive–and stressful–it is to try to think of everything you will need to do simultaneously. More likely you think in linear stages. For example, for the business trip, first, you decide where you want to go, then, who you want to see, then your flights, hotel, etc. The same holds true for preparing a presentation. Here is a simple “layer cake” prep sequence that will save you time and guarantee the best outcome.
Layer One
Determine the key message for this presentation based on your listeners, what you know about their situation, your objective, and how your assets, features, and benefits align with their needs.
Layer Two
Laundry list the content you think that supports your key message. Do not attempt to order the
information. Just get all your thoughts out on a page. (For those of you who know mind-mapping, mind-map the content.)
Layer Three
Sequence and edit the items on your laundry list. Decide what should go first, second, etc.
Layer Four
Decide what visuals will be needed for each item.
Layer Five
Decide what examples, stories, metaphors, or analogies you will need to reinforce, clarify, or dramatize each of those information points.
Layer Six
Figure out your links or transitions between points and groups of points
Layer Seven
Practice 3-5x, or until you are comfortable with the material.
Enjoy the “Cake!”
This linear planning approach will give you a rich, relevant, and resonant presentation, one that listeners will want to devour.
Anne Miller
Words Matter – Make What You Say Pay!
Random Recommendations
1. Do you suffer from “Glossophobia: the fear of public speaking?” Here is a wonderful infographic from Lydia Bailey, master’s degree consultant, to help you understand & overcome that fear. .jpg)
2. On the same subject, get my free ebook, No One Hears Your Pounding Heart 50 Tips & Strategies to be calm, cool, & confident in a presentation
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